UA Wayne College Announces 2012 Distinguished Alumni Recipient
The University of Akron Wayne College Alumni Association is proud to recognize David Lehman as its 2012 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient.
Lehman is the President and CEO of Mennonite Mutual Insurance Company, a local company specializing in insurance coverage for churches and farms. Lehman has been with Mennonite Mutual for 33 years and helped the company increase their two primary lines of business by over 20% last year. Lehman says his education equipped him with the analytical and management skills necessary to help the company succeed.
Lehman started college in 1971, when Kent State was offering classes at a local high school. In 1972, Wayne General and Technical College (now The University of Akron Wayne College) opened and the classes offered through Kent State were merged into the Wayne curriculum. Lehman took his general education courses at Wayne and then continued his studies as a commuter student at The University of Akron. Lehman graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business finance in 1979.
During his college years, Lehman juggled many responsibilities. In addition to working during the day and attending classes part-time at night, Lehman was married and he and his wife were raising their two young sons, Chris and Bryce. Lehman credits his supportive family and the availability of local higher education for much of his success.
“My wife allowed me to pursue my goals and finish school, and the convenience of local education helped to build the momentum to complete college,” Lehman said. “The drive would have made completing more difficult.”
UA Wayne College Interim Dean Neil Sapienza says Lehman is an excellent choice for the Distinguished Alumni Award.
“David is an excellent role model for our students, especially those who must balance work and family responsibilities along with their studies,” says Sapienza. “He is extremely dedicated to the vitality of the local community, and takes a keen interest in helping emerging leaders reach their potential.”
Lehman lives in Orrville with his wife, Arlene, and is very active in the community, serving as co-facilitator of Leadership Orrville, assisting non-profits with strategic planning, providing leadership training for the Mennonite church, and working as a presenter and trainer for trade associations including the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies. David was also the recipient of the 2009 Paul L. Powell Citizen of the Year Award given by the Orrville Chamber of Commerce.